I Reviewed the Fortiva® Cash Back Rewards Mastercard to See If It Truly Pays Off

Gone are the days when people with bad credit struggled to convince a good lender to give them a chance. When I worked for a credit counseling agency, my heart went out to people who desperately wanted to start fresh with a new credit card, but were almost always turned down. 

How could they repair damage without the opportunity to prove themselves? 

Thankfully, there are a slew of compelling credit cards designed for such applicants. Because there is more competition in this space, too, many cards offer enticing rewards and perks. The Fortiva® Cash Back Rewards Mastercard is among them. 

This unsecured card was designed specifically for people with poor-to-fair credit. Qualifying for the card is relatively easy, and your account activity will be reported to the three major credit bureaus, so you can improve your credit scores when used responsibly.

In some circumstances, you can even turn a profit with the cash back rewards. That said, there are a few potential downsides to this card, so read on. I’ll share all the important details.

Fortiva Financial is a fintech company that specializes in second-look financing. Essentially, they’ll find a way to approve applicants with subprime credit. 

And although the company has only been on the scene since 2009, it has partnered with Bank of Missouri, which was established in 1891, to issue the Fortiva® Cash Back Rewards Mastercard. For this reason, you can expect both top-notch technology and old-school stability. 

Fortiva® Cash Back Rewards Mastercard

APPLY HERE »

• Earn Cash Back Rewards* – 3% on Eligible Gas, Groceries, and Utilities, and 1% on All Other Eligible Purchases
• Use Anywhere Mastercard is Accepted
• No Security Deposit
• $0 fraud liability**
• Free access to your Credit Score†
  *See Program Terms for important information about the cash back rewards program.
  **Fraud liability subject to Mastercard rules.
  † Your credit score will be available in your online account starting 60 days after your account is opened. (Registration required.) The free VantageScore 4.0 credit score provided by TransUnion® is for educational purposes only. This score may not be used by The Bank of Missouri (the issuer of this card) or other creditors to make credit decisions.

Show MoreShow Less See application, terms, and details. »

Our Rating

Fortiva® Cash Back Rewards Mastercard

4.7/5.0

About this rating

BadCredit.org’s credit card ratings are calculated by our financial experts based on key criteria including APRs, fees, and approval odds. We also consider factors such as customer service and cardholder benefits. Our ratings are unbiased and regularly updated.

Ashley Fricker Senior Editor

Close

★★★★★

4.7

Application Length	Interest Rate	Reports Monthly	Reputation Score
7 minutes	36% Fixed	Yes	8.0/10

If you open this card, Fortiva will share your account activity with the three major consumer credit bureaus — Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. It will indicate the date you opened the card and its credit limit. When you begin to use your card, your monthly payment pattern and balance information will also be noted. 

Because credit scoring companies use this data to develop credit scores, using this card responsibly (by paying on time and keeping the balance low relative to the credit limit) can be instrumental in improving your credit scores. 

Another feature of the Fortiva® Cash Back Rewards Mastercard is that you can earn money as you charge. It offers 3% back when you charge gas, groceries, and utilities. For other eligible purchases, you’ll get 1% back. 

As with all credit cards, you won’t know how much credit you qualify for until you apply. Just don’t expect a large credit line. The current advertised limit is up to $1,000, but it’s common for this card to offer a much lower limit, such as $300 to $350, in the beginning. 

Fortiva does not accept requests for credit limit increases, but will regularly review your account and may raise the limit as you go along. It’s unlikely to be as much as what you would get with a credit card designed for people with high credit scores. 

Ah, fees. That’s one of this card’s primary downsides. It’s not free, so review how much it could cost you before you take steps to get it. 

Year 1

First up is the annual fee, which is between $85 and $175. Why a range instead of a flat cost? Because it is dependent on your creditworthiness when you apply. It’s called risk-based pricing. The fee will be higher if you are considered a greater credit risk and lower if you are a lower risk. 

To determine the annual fee, Fortiva will concentrate on your credit score, credit history, and total debt, but your income and household expenses may also be analyzed. 

Unlike many other credit cards, this one assesses an account maintenance fee, though it’s usually waived during the introductory year. 

Year 2 & Beyond

Starting in your second year with the account, the annual fee structure goes away and you start paying a flat $49, no matter what you paid in Year 1. 

However, the full maintenance fee now goes into effect. It is $180 annually, and you will be billed monthly, so expect to see a charge of $15 on your account statement and added to your bill.

Total Cost Impact

This is where it gets tricky. It is entirely possible that the amount you pay for this card goes up in the second and subsequent years. 

For example, if you are approved for the lowest tier ($350 credit limit), you will pay an $85 annual fee upfront in Year 1, while your monthly maintenance fee is completely waived. But on your second-year anniversary, your annual fee drops to a fixed $49, but you start payings the $180 maintenance fee. Your total annual carrying cost rises to $229.

For this reason, you may want to take a hard look at whether keeping the Fortiva® Cash Back Rewards Mastercard in the future makes financial sense when the fees increase. If your credit scores improved because you managed this card well, you may qualify for a new account with no or low fees as well as a lucrative rewards program. 

You may wonder if the cash back you can earn with this card will help you turn a profit. The answer is that it can, but don’t expect a large windfall. The low limit and high fees make earning a lot of money difficult. 

Imagine you regularly charge $800 a month on purchases that give you 3% cash back. You’ll get $24 in your rewards bank, which totals $288 for the year.

However, once you enter your second year, you subtract the mandatory $49 annual fee and the $180 maintenance fee (which total $229). That brings the true net value of your cash back rewards down to $59 for the year.

So what happens if you charge a very small amount and the combined fees are on the high side? It will cost you more than you make. If you only earn $5 each month in cash back rewards, the grand total would be $60 annually. 

However, if it’s your second year into the account and the annual fee is $49 and the maintenance fee is $180, the card is costing you $229 per year. After subtracting the cash back rewards, you don’t earn anything. Instead, the card costs you $169. 

Cash Back Categories

The Fortiva® Cash Back Rewards Mastercard is not a flat-rate card where you only get 1% back for every spending category.

Instead, you’ll enjoy 3% back when you use your credit card to pay for gas at filling stations, groceries from supermarkets and traditional grocery stores, and utility bills (such as electricity, gas, water, sewer, trash, sometimes internet/phone if billed as utilities). 

You will earn 1% cash back rewards when you charge other eligible purchases, such as dining out, travel, and retail items. 

The Break-Even Analysis

In general, I do not recommend holding onto a card that costs more than it’s giving, so run the numbers to make sure you will profit from the process (or at least not fall behind). At the very least, you’ll want to break even.

Redemption Rules

So, what can you do with the rewards you do earn? Well, that’s really not up to you. 

Fortiva will automatically apply the cash back as an annual statement credit against your purchase balance. You’ll have to wait an entire year, though, at which point any earned rewards will go toward the balance on the anniversary month of your account opening. 

For instance, imagine you opened the account in January 2025, and your ending bill in January 2026 is $250. If your accumulated cash back is $200, your updated balance would be $50. 

Therefore, you can’t redeem your cash back rewards to drive down your monthly balance or to cover a minimum payment. And unlike many other cash back cards, you will not have the option to trade your rewards in for cash, purchase gift cards, or to buy goods and services. 

“Fortiva will automatically apply the cash back as an annual statement credit against your purchase balance. You’ll have to wait an entire year, though, at which point any earned rewards will go toward the balance on the anniversary month of your account opening.” — Erica Sandberg

Another key point is that your account must be in good standing by the anniversary date. It can’t be in default, suspended, or restricted, and you can’t be late on payments.

In the event that your account is not in good standing, you won’t forfeit the rewards but you’ll have to wait until the next anniversary month for them to be applied — a whopping year later. 

Outside of using this credit card to make safe and secure purchases, the Fortiva® Cash Back Rewards Mastercard can help you rebuild credit and get back on track financially.

Transaction Alerts & Fraud Protection

As with every credit card, you will want to manage this account carefully. Fortiva helps with its real-time transaction alert system, which sends notifications via email, text, or mobile app. It’s a simple way to stay on top of account activity so you can manage your budget and avoid overspending.

To enable alerts, log in to your online account or open the mobile app and navigate to the notifications section. Once enabled, you’ll receive near real-time updates about account activity.

You can also lock and unlock your card through the system, which is particularly helpful if your card is misplaced or you suspect suspicious activity.

This card also includes Mastercard’s standard Zero Liability protection, meaning you won’t be held responsible for unauthorized charges if your card is lost, stolen, or used without your permission — provided you report fraudulent transactions promptly. Real-time alerts can help you identify and report issues quickly.

The Mobile App

Technology is your friend when you’re working toward repairing your credit! The Fortiva Account Center app is free and makes it easy to handle your account business from your smartphone or other mobile device. 

With it you can check your current account balance, monitor transactions, pay your bill, and view your past payment activity. And then there are super helpful functions, such as setting up automatic bill pay and enabling the notification system to receive account activity alerts and track your cash back rewards. 

Since the fees and interest rates associated with this account tend to be high, I do recommend using this app frequently. It will help you keep those costs as low as possible and maintain control over your finances.

Free Credit Score Tracking

If your motivation for getting the Fortiva® Cash Back Rewards Mastercard is to increase your credit score, marvelous. When you’ve had it for 60 days, you will have free access to your VantageScore credit score.

As with other consumer credit scoring models, the VantageScore ranges from a low of 300 to a high of 850. That three-digit number will be posted to your online account dashboard and the app, so you can track your progress at no cost to you.

To improve your score, focus on:

• Consistent on-time payments
• Maintaining a low credit utilization (your balance compared to your credit limit)

So if your credit score is 599 when you open the card, then 620 the next month, and 650 the month after that, you’ll know you’re moving in the right direction.

Building credit takes time, so don’t be discouraged if it’s not moving as quickly as you’d like.

Customer Support

Because so many companies have deferred to artificial intelligence (AI) agents, it was refreshing to know how fast and easy it was to speak to Fortiva representatives.

The customer service number is 1-877-785-7908, and is open Monday to Sunday, 8:00 AM to 12:00 AM Eastern Time. For hearing-impaired assistance, dial 711, then 855-921-5700.

When I called, the recorded prompts instructed me to enter my Social Security number, which I overrode because I’m not an account holder. The recording also explained that I have the option to communicate over text. I remained on the line, and in about three minutes, a customer support person greeted me with her name. 

I asked a number of questions about the Fortiva® Cash Back Rewards Mastercard, which she answered clearly and professionally. 

In addition to calling, Fortiva offers several other ways to contact the company for assistance: 

• Complete the “contact us” form on the website.
• Enable the chat function on the app.
• Email. For account questions, use service@myfortiva.com; for accessibility issues, use accessibility@MyFortiva.com. 
• Mail: Account Services
  P.O. Box 105555
  Atlanta, GA 30348-5555

Fortiva does not specify an exact credit score you need to qualify for the Cash Back Rewards Mastercard, but they do make it known that this account is for applicants who have poor to fair credit. In general, poor credit scores are between 300 to 580, while fair scores are 580 to 669. 

Before applying, it’s a good idea to check your FICO Score or VantageScore to see where you stand. If your scores are within that range, this card may be a worthwhile option, but if they’re higher, you should pursue a credit card that’s less restrictive and fee-heavy.  

Also know that because Fortiva is a second-look credit issuer, they may also use alternative data to gauge your creditworthiness, including your banking information and payment history. You will also need an income that shows you can meet the credit card payments, which may be verified by accessing your bank account information. 

To find out how long it would take to apply for the Fortiva® Cash Back Rewards Mastercard and what information I needed to include, I tested the system out. Here’s a road map of my steps: 

Step 1

On the Fortiva website, I see the Prequalification page. There is an explanation about the card’s benefits, including cash back rewards, and that it doesn’t require a security deposit. 

Upon clicking the See If You Prequalify button, it asks for my first name, middle initial (optional), and last name, as well as my home address, date of birth, and Social Security number. Then I have to check boxes agreeing to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy, as well as a disclosure explaining that this step involves a soft credit inquiry. 

I hit the submit button to find out if I am prequalified. 

Step 2

In just a moment, I see that I am prequalified for a Fortiva® Cash Back Rewards Mastercard! I see a summary of terms associated with the account, including the APR range, annual fee, and an overview of the rewards program. 

I hit the button asking me to continue. 

Step 3 

The next screen shows me information about what will happen if I proceed with the application, which will result in a hard credit inquiry on my file. It also shows the card agreement, along with the associated fees and APR. I’m invited to continue with the application process, so I move to the next screen.

Step 4

Here is the real application for this card. I’ll need to verify information I’ve already submitted, such as my Social Security Number, email address, and phone number. I’m also asked about my housing status and need to specify whether I rent or own my own home.

Step 5

Now I am asked to complete a form about my employment status. Am I employed, self-employed, or unemployed? What is my gross income, including other income sources I may have? 

Step 6 

At this stage, I’m shown a complete summary of all the information I entered. If anything isn’t correct, I have the opportunity to go back and fix it before moving forward.

I also see the final Submit button. If I press it, Fortiva will conduct a hard credit inquiry. After that, I’ll find out whether I’m approved for the card. If I’m approved, I’ll receive the actual credit limit amount, APR, and fees associated with the account. The card will then be mailed to me.

It’s also possible that the decision will be pending, which means Fortiva may request verification of the information I submitted. If I’m declined, I’ll receive a letter called an Adverse Action Notice explaining the reasons for the decision.

As we’ve established, this card is designed for people who have low credit scores and want to use a credit card not just as a way to make purchases, but to add positive account information to their credit reports. 

Here’s a profile of someone who might want to apply: 

Anne just went through a financially draining divorce. During that time, she used her one credit card to cover necessities but fell behind on payments. She eventually defaulted on the account, and her credit score dropped to 588. 

Now Anne is in a better position, with a new job. She can meet her expenses and is saving for a home down payment. Her goal is to qualify for a good mortgage, so she needs to hike up her credit scores. The Fortiva® Cash Back Rewards Mastercard may be ideal for her. 

She will get 3% cash back on groceries and gas, which she’s happy to charge and then pay off immediately. By paying on time and in full, she’ll have a steady stream of attractive data on her credit reports, which can help her credit scores rise — and she’ll be on track for that low-rate home loan. 

Is the Fortiva® Cash Back Rewards Mastercard the right account for you? That depends on your credit rating, goals, and usage. Because this card was developed for people with problematic credit, there are both advantages and disadvantages.

Although the downsides of this card can seem daunting, it’s important to bear in mind that this account can be a practical tool when used strategically. By paying your balance in full each month, you can avoid any interest from being added to your transactions, and even turn a small profit with the cash back as you build a positive credit history. 

Here are some other cards for people with poor to fair credit that may be worth a look: 

Aspire® Cash Back Rewards Mastercard

APPLY HERE »

• Earn Cash Back Rewards* – 3% on Eligible Gas, Groceries, and Utilities, and 1% on All Other Eligible Purchases
• Up to $1,000 credit limit subject to credit approval
• Prequalify** without affecting your credit score
• No security deposit
• Free Access to your Credit Score†
  *See Program Terms for important information about the cash back rewards program.
  ** Prequalify means that you authorize us to make a soft inquiry into your credit history (that will not affect your credit) to create an offer. If you accept an offer a hard inquiry will be made. Final approval is not guaranteed if you do not meet all applicable criteria (including adequate proof of ability to repay). Income verification through access to your bank account information may be required.
  † Your credit score will be available in your online account starting 60 days after your account is opened. (Registration required.) The free VantageScore 4.0 credit score provided by TransUnion® is for educational purposes only. This score may not be used by The Bank of Missouri (the issuer of this card) or other creditors to make credit decisions.

Show MoreShow Less See application, terms, and details. »

Our Rating

Aspire® Cash Back Rewards Mastercard

4.7/5.0

About this rating

BadCredit.org’s credit card ratings are calculated by our financial experts based on key criteria including APRs, fees, and approval odds. We also consider factors such as customer service and cardholder benefits. Our ratings are unbiased and regularly updated.

Ashley Fricker Senior Editor

Close

★★★★★

4.7

Application Length	Interest Rate	Reports Monthly	Reputation Score
7 minutes	36% Fixed	Yes	8.0/10

The Aspire® Cash Back Rewards Mastercard is also for people with poor to fair credit. The credit line is unsecured and offers a free credit score.

Like the Fortiva® Cash Back Rewards Mastercard, the APR is high, and its fee structure is similar. The main difference — and downside — is the rewards program. You’ll earn a flat 1% cash back on everything, compared to Fortiva’s 3% back on certain purchases.  

The secured Chime Visa® Credit Card

APPLY HERE »

• No minimum balance requirements*
• No credit check**
• 2% cash back on category of choice with direct deposit***
• The perks of credit building meet the best of banking****
• Chime Checking Account required to apply for the Chime Visa® Credit Card

• Chime is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by The Bancorp Bank, N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A., Members FDIC. The secured Chime Visa® Credit Card is issued by The Bancorp Bank, N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A. pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa credit cards are accepted. Please see the back of your Card for its issuing bank. *Money added to Chime CardTM will be held in a secured deposit account as collateral for your Chime Card, and you can spend up to this amount. You can use money deposited in your Secured Deposit Account to pay off your charges at the end of every month. **Out-of-network ATM withdrawal and over the counter advance fees may apply. ***With a qualifying direct deposit, earn 2% cash back on category of choice on eligible secured Chime Visa® Credit Card purchases. ****On-time payment history may have a positive impact on your credit score. Late payment may negatively impact your credit score. Results may vary.

Show MoreShow Less See application, terms, and details. »

Our Rating

The secured Chime Visa® Credit Card

4.8/5.0

About this rating

BadCredit.org’s credit card ratings are calculated by our financial experts based on key criteria including APRs, fees, and approval odds. We also consider factors such as customer service and cardholder benefits. Our ratings are unbiased and regularly updated.

Ashley Fricker Senior Editor

Close

★★★★★

4.8

Application Length	Interest Rate	Reports Monthly	Reputation Score
5 minutes	N/A	Yes	9.5

There is no credit requirement for the The secured Chime Visa® Credit Card, making it attractive for people with damaged credit histories. You just sign up for the card, transfer funds to your Chime Card account, and then you can charge up to that amount.

The money in your Chime account pays the balance, so you aren’t charged interest. There is no preset limit because it all depends on how much you add to the account. Chime reports to the credit bureaus, so you will build credit as you use the card. There are no annual or maintenance fees. 

But what don’t you get? A rewards program. And if you do want to charge something expensive that exceeds the cash in your account and pay over time, you’re out of luck. 

When you want to repair damaged credit, you’ll need a credit product that shows up on your credit reports and is factored into your credit scores. Because the Fortiva® Cash Back Rewards Mastercard does just that, it can be a great way to achieve that goal. 

This low-limit, unsecured card is built for people with imperfect credit, so you don’t have to worry about overly high qualification standards. Fortiva leans on alternative data, so it is able to approve many people who are in the subprime credit category.

It comes with an excellent app that can help you manage your account on the go. The free credit score and generous cash back rewards program are nice additions. Beware the fees, though, which can be ultra steep.

In some cases, the combination of those costs can be higher in the second and subsequent years than they are in the first, and can exceed the value of your earned rewards. 

However, after using the Fortiva® Cash Back Rewards Mastercard to build a more impressive credit history and score, you may consider moving up to a less expensive card with premium perks and a higher credit line. The good news is that excellent options abound today.